‘Cockpit Confidential: Everything You Need to Know About Air Travel’ by Patrick Smith

Are you afraid of flying? Have you ever wondered how an airplane stays in the air? Do you know what it’s really like to be a pilot or a steward? Patrick Smith addresses these questions and more in ‘Cockpit Confidential’. The book is written in a question/answer format and contains reflections from the author who is himself a licensed pilot. As someone who spends a considerable amount of time in airplanes and airports around the world, I found Smith’s book both interesting and informative.

Smith writes in a highly reassuring and factual way that helps readers understand the complex airline industry as well as feel better about boarding their next flight. Turbulence is no more than a bumpy road that pilots try to steer around and airport security an over reaction to 9/11. The sections I enjoyed most were around airline service which has become a lost art. Why is it that we feel more like children on a school bus when flying instead of paying customers who deserve better service? I fully agreed with his analysis on the best and worst airlines in the industry. Interestingly the author shows a definite bias for the company Boeing and especially for the 747 aircraft – as a frequent flyer, I enjoy the upstairs of an A380 most for comfort.

Patrick Smith is passionate about flying and his book reminds us that air travel is still a unique privilege that we can enjoy.